Martin Richardson, a professor of optics in the College of Optics & Photonics, was presented with the award at the university’s Founder’s Day ceremony April 13.

Richardson joined UCF in 1990, three years after the Center for Research and Education in Optics and Lasers was established, and he is credited with playing an essential role in building a leading academic research group in laser-matter interactions. Ultimately his work enables the creation of ever-smaller microchips, leading to smaller, faster and more powerful computers.

“At UCF, Professor Richardson has truly excelled in his ability to build an internationally recognized research and student-training program, with significant achievements in EUV source development for lithography . . . ,” wrote David Attwood, professor in residence in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences at the University of California, Berkeley, in a letter of reference for the award.

In the last eight years at UCF Richardson has generated $2.7 million in research funding in addition to a recent $22 million donation from Northrup Grumman, giving UCF the largest patent portfolio in the technology.

He also holds the unique distinction of having received UCF’s 100th patent in 2002 for technology in EUV light sources. Richardson’s work in EUV source development is credited with having a major impact on the entire field of advanced lithography.

Richardson’ contributions to science and to the lives of his students is profound and lasting, said MJ Soileau, vice president of research, in presenting the award.

”Through his research, and the careers of his graduate students, Martin has consistently focused on generating scientific knowledge and technology for the economic betterment of society,” Soileau said.

mrichard@creol.ucf.edu